David,

Condolences to you. My dad died a little over four years ago and was 81 just short of 82. I still miss him.

Many years ago, my work mentor was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. A work friend and I went once a week to her house. She had moved back in with her wonderful mom who is still one of the purely spiritual and upbeat people it's been my privilege to meet. Because of my mentor's illness, I deciced to take a hot air balloon ride, even though it was very expensive and I didn't really have the money for it. I also didn't have that special someone to share it with either. Had I waited, I would have lost out on one of the truly serene moments I've ever experienced. When I returned, was able to show my mentor and her mother the pictures I took. It's one of my happier memories. I am glad that I realized that life is too short, and that spending time with someone who is dying is really a gift to both of you. Good for you for facing that head on. Takes coursge that not everyone has.